Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage

This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage is a flavorful, comforting dish that combines succulent shrimp, spicy andouille sausage, and a rich, creamy sauce with tender fettuccine. It’s perfect for a hearty dinner that’s full of Cajun-inspired flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Kosher salt and fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning or Creole seasoning
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 6 oz andouille sausage or smoked sausage, thinly sliced
• 10 oz fettuccine pasta
• ½ yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 4 tsp Cajun seasoning or Creole seasoning
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• 2-3 cloves garlic, chopped
• ½ cup crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth, sodium-free
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ⅔ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Season and Cook Shrimp: Toss the shrimp with salt, pepper, Cajun seasoning, and oregano. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes per side, or until they are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
2. Cook the Sausage: In the same skillet, add the sliced sausage. Cook until browned, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside with the shrimp.
3. Cook the Pasta: While the sausage is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. Sauté Vegetables: Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Sauté the onion, bell pepper, Cajun seasoning, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt over medium heat until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add Garlic and Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Make the Sauce: Once the sauce is simmering, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it is fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
7. Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta, sausage, and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything together and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Variations:

• Vegetable Addition: Add spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra vegetables in your pasta.
• Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
• Cheese Options: Substitute the Parmesan with Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a different flavor.

Storage:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: Although the sauce contains cream, it can be frozen. Freeze the pasta in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, you can use any pasta you like, such as penne, rigatoni, or linguine. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.

Q: Can I substitute the shrimp with chicken?
A: Absolutely! Sliced chicken breast or thighs work well in this recipe. Cook the chicken until fully done before adding it to the sauce.

Q: Is there a non-dairy alternative for the cream?
A: You can use coconut milk or a non-dairy creamer as a substitute for the heavy cream. Keep in mind it may slightly alter the flavor of the dish.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Store them separately and combine them just before serving to keep the pasta from absorbing too much sauce.

This Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage is a deliciously indulgent dish that’s perfect for a special dinner or any time you’re craving something rich and flavorful. Enjoy the bold Cajun spices combined with creamy pasta and savory shrimp!

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